What Counts as a Dental Emergency? (And When to Go to the ER)
Updated 2026-11-02 · General information, not medical advice.
Not every toothache is an emergency, but some dental problems can't wait. Use this quick triage to decide what to do next.
Go to the ER or call 911
- Facial swelling that spreads toward the eye or neck, or makes it hard to swallow or breathe
- Fever with a swollen face or jaw
- Heavy bleeding that won't stop after 15 minutes of firm pressure
- A jaw injury or suspected broken jaw after an accident
See an emergency dentist today
- A knocked-out adult tooth — the first hour matters most
- Severe, throbbing toothache that painkillers don't control
- A swollen gum bump (possible abscess)
- A cracked tooth with sharp pain
Usually OK within a day or two
- A lost filling or crown with no pain
- A small chip without sensitivity
- A broken denture
When in doubt, call a dentist and describe your symptoms. Find one near you on our city pages or see who is listed as open 24 hours.
This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from a licensed dentist or doctor.